Pakistan Seeks BRICS Entry for Economic Relief, But India's Veto Keeps Door Shut

Pakistan’s attempt to join Brics remains unresolved as leaders of the grouping gather in New Delhi for the 18th summit. Islamabad formally applied for membership in 2023, but India’s opposition has kept it outside the bloc. Brics originally comprised Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The grouping expanded in 2024 with the inclusion of Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates, becoming known as Brics+. Saudi Arabia and Argentina were also invited during the expansion process, although Argentina later declined to join.

Pakistan publicly confirmed its Brics membership application in 2023, when the grouping was preparing for a major expansion under Russia’s presidency. Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch announced the move during her weekly press briefing. "Yes, I can confirm that Pakistan has made a formal request to join Brics, which we believe is an important grouping of developing countries," Baloch said. She said Pakistan had friendly relations with most Brics members and the countries invited to join the bloc. Baloch also highlighted Islamabad’s support for multilateralism and its participation in international organisations working for global peace and development. "We believe that by joining Brics, Pakistan can play an important role in furthering international cooperation and revitalising inclusive multilateralism. Baloch’s statement came as the grouping prepared to admit Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The new members were expected to formally join during the 2024 summit in Russia.

Pakistan is among 29 countries that have applied to join Brics. Its bid is largely linked to its economic difficulties and the need to find new sources of funding. According to the Pakistan Economic Survey, the country’s GDP growth stood at 3.70 per cent. A report by Nikkei Asia said Pakistan had purchased a $580 million stake in the Brics-backed New Development Bank. The move was aimed at widening Islamabad’s financing options and reducing its dependence on the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.

Despite its application and the bloc’s expansion, Pakistan has not secured membership. New Delhi’s veto power within Brics has effectively blocked Islamabad’s entry. Pakistan’s bid also comes against the backdrop of wider regional tensions and its strained relations with India. While Islamabad has sought to present membership as part of its economic and diplomatic strategy, India’s opposition remains the main obstacle. During the 2023 briefing, Baloch also called for action by Afghan authorities against terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan. She reiterated Pakistan’s support for an international peace conference on the Palestinian issue and the implementation of United Nations resolutions supporting a two-state solution.